A Journey Through Time in Arles

As I stepped into Arles, I was immediately enveloped by the whispers of history that seemed to echo through its cobblestone streets. This small city, with its two millennia of history, is a treasure trove for anyone with a passion for the past. The Roman Amphitheatre, a testament to the grandeur of ancient Rome, stands proudly in the heart of the city. Its weathered stones tell tales of gladiators and roaring crowds, a vivid reminder of the city’s illustrious past.

Strolling through the old town, I found myself at the Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis. The rows of sarcophagi, shaded by cypress trees, create a serene yet haunting atmosphere. It’s a place where one can almost feel the presence of those who walked these paths centuries ago. As a former professor of European history, I couldn’t help but marvel at the layers of time that Arles presents to its visitors.

The city’s connection to Vincent Van Gogh adds another layer of intrigue. Standing before the famous yellow café, I imagined the artist capturing the vibrant life of Arles on his canvas. The blend of Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s legacy makes Arles a unique tapestry of art and history.

The Enchantment of Les Baux-de-Provence

Leaving Arles, we journeyed to Les Baux-de-Provence, a medieval village perched atop a rocky outcrop. The drive itself was a scenic delight, with olive groves and vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see. Les Baux is a place where history and nature intertwine seamlessly.

The village’s castle, nestled among cliffs, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As I wandered through its charming streets, I was captivated by the boutiques and cafés that line the cobblestones. Each corner seemed to hold a story, a piece of the past waiting to be discovered.

A highlight of Les Baux is the Carrières des Lumières, an art center housed in a former bauxite mine. The immersive art show, with its vibrant projections, was a feast for the senses. It was a reminder of how art can transform spaces and bring history to life in unexpected ways.

The Allure of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Our final stop was Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a town immortalized in Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” The narrow streets and tree-lined squares exude a charm that is quintessentially Provençal. As I wandered through the town, I was drawn to the art galleries and boutiques offering regional products.

Outside the town, the Roman ruins of Glanum beckoned. Walking among the remnants of this ancient city, I was reminded of the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire. The nearby Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery, where Van Gogh spent a year, offered a glimpse into the artist’s life and the inspiration he drew from this beautiful region.

This journey from Arles to Saint-Rémy was a rich tapestry of history, art, and natural beauty. Each stop offered a unique glimpse into the past, a chance to walk in the footsteps of those who came before us. For anyone with a love for history and art, this is a journey not to be missed.